How should I adjust my admissions strategy for the University of Maryland versus Princeton?

Tailor the applications substantially, even though your transcript, activities list, and recommendations can remain consistent. Princeton needs a sharply intellectual, personal case for why you would thrive in an unusually discussion-driven residential liberal arts environment; the University of Maryland needs a clear case for your academic preparation, intended academic direction, and contribution to a large public research university.

For Princeton, prioritize depth over breadth. Your activities should reveal what genuinely absorbs you outside class, how you think, and how you engage with other people or ideas. Use Princeton’s required short answers to add dimensions that a résumé cannot convey: a specific intellectual question you have pursued, a meaningful community contribution, or an unexpected perspective. Avoid treating the supplements as a list of accomplishments; Princeton already sees those elsewhere.

Maryland is a strong fit for students who want access to broad academic options, research, professional pathways, internships near Washington, D.C., and a large, active campus community. Make sure your selected major aligns with relevant coursework and activities, while showing that you understand how you would use Maryland’s scale and resources.

Keep facts identical across both applications, but change the emphasis. At Princeton, lead with intellectual character and the way you would participate in a close academic community. At Maryland, lead with preparation, direction, and the concrete opportunities you would pursue within its larger research ecosystem.